Compare Mowers
List prices are the manufacturer’s published figures, re-checked daily; they exclude tax, freight and dealer setup.
A side-by-side reference of each model's stated specifications. MowerFacts doesn’t give opinions: where a published, spec-derived rule can separate machines we mark a Data Pick and show the rule; here, read the values and decide what fits your needs.
Best suited for
What each model is built for, from its duty class and key specs. This is a neutral reference — MowerFacts does not rank one model above another.
- Grasshopper SO27KW — commercial: daily paid use and high acreage; 52-inch deck; gas powered
- Grasshopper SO26 — commercial: daily paid use and high acreage; 52-inch deck; gas powered
What’s different? The 3 differences that matter most, from the published figures.
- SO27KW uses a Kawasaki engine; SO26 uses a Vanguard engine. The engine maker builds the engine; the mower maker chooses the model, rating and fit, so the badge alone does not settle output or longevity.
- SO27KW holds 13.5 gal (51.1 L) of fuel; SO26 holds 9.3 gal (35 L) of fuel, a 4.2 gal difference. Tank size bounds how long a machine runs between stops. Consumption varies with engine, load and speed, so hours per tank are not fixed.
- SO27KW has a 52 ci (852 cc) engine; SO26 has a 49.4 ci (810 cc) engine, a 2.6 ci difference. Displacement is the engine's size, not its output. A larger engine is not necessarily a more powerful one.
Verified means each manufacturer publishes the figure. A bigger number is only a bigger number; nothing here says which machine is better. The full specification table is below.
Which is faster on your property? › Measure your lawn once and MowerFacts times all 2 against it.
| Spec | SO27KW Grasshopper · Commercial |
SO26 Grasshopper · Commercial |
|---|---|---|
| List price | $13,365 | $13,365 |
| Engine | ||
| Power Source | gas | gas |
| Engine Make | Kawasaki | Vanguard |
| Displacement | 52 ci (852 cc) | 49.4 ci (810 cc) |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Deck | ||
| Cutting Width | 52 in (1321 mm) | 52 in (1321 mm) |
| Drive | ||
| Transmission | T-Drive Transmission | T-Drive Transmission |
| Dimensions | ||
| Fuel Capacity | 13.5 gal (51.1 L) | 9.3 gal (35 L) |
Where these models differ, explained
SO27KW: Specs verified against the manufacturer spec sheet on Jun 6, 2026 — grasshoppermower.com.
SO26: Specs verified against the manufacturer spec sheet on Jun 6, 2026 — grasshoppermower.com.
Independent reference database. Specs compiled from manufacturer sources and normalized for comparison; verify with the manufacturer or dealer before purchase.